Getting Your Garden Ready for Spring

As winter winds down, it's time to prepare your garden for the growing season ahead. Here are my top tips for getting started.

Assess Your Garden

Take a walk through your garden and note:

• What survived the winter - Some plants may have died back but will return
• Areas that need attention - Compacted soil, bare spots, or erosion
• Opportunities for improvement - Where could you add more diversity?

Soil Preparation

The foundation of a healthy garden is healthy soil. Here's how to get yours ready:

Test Your Soil

Consider getting a soil test to understand what amendments you might need. Your local extension office often offers affordable testing.

Add Compost

Spring is the perfect time to add a 2-3 inch layer of compost to your beds. This will:

• Improve soil structure
• Add beneficial microorganisms
• Provide slow-release nutrients

Avoid Tilling

If possible, avoid tilling your soil. This disrupts the soil food web and can bring weed seeds to the surface. Instead, use a broadfork for gentle aeration.

Plan Your Plantings

Now is the time to:

1. Review what worked (and didn't) last year
2. Order seeds early for best selection
3. Start seeds indoors for transplants
4. Map out your garden beds

Prune Wisely

Early spring is ideal for pruning many fruit trees and shrubs, but timing matters:

• Prune before bud break for most deciduous trees
• Wait until after flowering for spring-blooming shrubs
• Remove dead and damaged branches anytime

Happy gardening! 🌱